Chinese Shar Pei

Shar Peis have fascinating looks and their wrinkled faces and hippo-like appearance is unique in the world of canines. And but for the efforts of a few Hong Kong breeders, the Chinese Shar Pei would at one time have been destroyed by the Chinese Communists. It is an ancient breed that comes from an ancient land and is related to Tibetan Mastiff as well as to the Chow Chow.

In appearance, the Chinese Shar Pei is compact as well as square and quite muscular and with a blocky head reminds one of a hippopotamus, and as adults they can weigh as much as forty to fifty-five pounds. The Shar Pei also possesses a strong and well-balanced gait and has good rear-end drive as well. It derives its name mainly from its coarse as well as bristly coat that could be of three main types that are horse, bear and brush coats.

The Chinese Shar Pei is a breed that is well liked and also well known for its calm and confident look. It is very dignified as well, though not so well disposed to showing friendliness to strangers, as it can often also be quite arrogant. The Shar Pei also has a clownish temperament and such characteristics make Shar Pei training a bit of a chore though it must be trained to socialize and to understand that the master is the law and superior to him.

The Chinese Shar Pei is also an excellent watchdog, though care must be taken by its owner to not allow it to get too aggressive to other dogs and even to other humans. However, it is a breed that likes to be around people and it is always a good idea before selecting a pup, to ensure that its breeder has allowed it a lot of opportunity to be around people so that it is already used to human company.

Thus, training the Shar Pei may prove to be harder than you bargained for, though once socialized, will make for an excellent and devoted companion.

The Chinese Shar Pei that is best known for its wrinkles has become very popular today which is a big change from its once having been listed as a rare dog breed, though today it is not in danger of going extinct as he once was during the days of the Chinese Communists.

Still, because of good fortune, it is now possible to own this aloof breed that has a unique appearance, though such a breed is still not the best bet for a first time dog owner and because it needs a fair bit of maintenance, may not always be the easiest dog to keep at home.

The Shar Pei is also prone to certain health problems and will often require preventive care, which a prospective owner must be aware of and be prepared to do. Nevertheless, the Chinese Shar Pei is loved and because of its possessive nature, makes a good family pet, and to ensure that you get yourself a good pet, try and obtain it from reputable breeders who will ensure that its temperament is sound, and who will have assessed it as being worthy of making an ideal pet dog.

About the author: Melissa Coleman is a passionate lover of the Shar Pei and owns a popular website where you’ll discover how to have a happy, healthy and well behaved Shar Pei . Among other topics there, you will find out more about Shar Pei types plus a whole lot more.